Summer brings more time outdoors for children with fun activities like swimming, sports, and family trips, but it also comes with important safety risks that are often overlooked. From sun exposure and dehydration to heat-related illnesses and water safety concerns, parents and caregivers play a key role in keeping kids protected during the warmer months. To help us better understand how to keep children safe and healthy this summer, we sat down with Director of Pediatrics, Patera Foye-Fuller, DNP, APRN, CPNP-PC, BS.
How can parents keep their children safe while playing outdoors in extreme heat?
I would advise parents to have children play in the early morning or later in the evening. Peak sun hours are typically 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., so if you’re going to the park or playing in the backyard, look for shaded areas whenever possible. Make sure children stay well hydrated throughout the day. A general guideline is that a child who weighs 100 pounds should drink about half of that weight in ounces of fluid per day, adjusted based on activity and heat.
What are the early signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke in kids that parents should watch for?
With heat exhaustion, a child is usually sweating heavily and may feel dizzy or complain of a headache. With heat stroke, the core body temperature rises above 104 degrees Fahrenheit, and neurological changes can occur, such as dizziness, irritability, and confusion. Heat stroke is a medical emergency. In many cases, the skin may become dry but feel very warm to the touch, and the pulse is often very fast, typically greater than 100 beats per minute.
How often should sunscreen be reapplied, especially during swimming or outdoor play?
As pediatric clinicians, we recommend using at least SPF 30. When swimming, sunscreen should be reapplied afterward. “Water-resistant” sunscreen typically provides about 40 minutes of protection in water, while “very water-resistant” can last up to 80 minutes, but neither means all-day protection. It’s important to reapply regularly, especially after swimming, and every two hours when outdoors. For best absorption, dry the skin before reapplying, and don’t forget commonly missed areas like the nose, forehead, ears, back of the neck, and feet.
What are the options for people who are allergic to sunscreen?
Mineral-based sunscreens, like those with zinc oxide, are a great option because they sit on top of the skin and provide a physical barrier against the sun. They’re especially helpful for children or anyone with sensitive skin, since they’re less likely to cause irritation. There are also many improved formulas available now that are easier to apply and blend. The most important thing is to choose a sunscreen that works for you and use it consistently; don’t skip it.
How can families safely enjoy water activities like pools, lakes, or the beach?
Water activities can be fun, but safety is key. The most important thing is touch supervision, meaning you should always be within arm’s reach of a child in the water because it only takes a small amount of water to drown. Children should have swimming lessons before being considered safe swimmers. If they cannot swim, they should wear a life vest or flotation device at all times, not something they have to grab. Ear and nose plugs can help, and when swimming in lakes, it is best to avoid putting your head underwater or swallowing the water due to bacteria risks.
What should parents include in a basic summer first-aid kit?
A basic summer first-aid kit should include essentials, like bandages, gauze, and tape, along with antiseptic wipes and an ointment, such as Neosporin or a generic equivalent. Hydrocortisone cream is helpful for mosquito bites and minor skin irritation. It’s also a good idea to have insect repellent and an oral antihistamine, like Benadryl, on hand for reactions to bites or exposure to things like poison ivy. For general care, include pain relievers, like Tylenol or ibuprofen, tweezers for splinters or ticks, and ice packs to help with swelling or itching. Aloe vera can be useful for soothing skin conditions and rashes. Lastly, staying hydrated is key, so keep water available, along with electrolyte drinks, like Pedialyte or Gatorade, to help replace fluids lost in the heat.
How can parents keep kids safe during outdoor activities, like biking, hiking, or playing sports?
When it comes to biking and playing sports, protective gear is essential. Helmets are a must, children should always wear one, and it should be properly fastened and checked. A good rule is no helmet, no bike, scooter, or skates. Anything with movement requires head protection. For younger children, adding elbow and knee pads can provide extra safety. If you’re hiking or spending time in wooded areas, it’s best to keep skin covered to protect against insects, plants, and allergens, like poison ivy.
What role does proper protective gear (like helmets) play in preventing injuries?
That extra layer of protection matters because when children fall, it’s not just about how they fall, but where they fall. Hitting certain areas of the head can lead to more serious injuries that last much longer than the fall itself.
What should parents know about summer illnesses, like ear infections or swimmer’s ear?
Swimmer’s ear is different from a typical ear infection. With otitis media, there is inflammation of the tympanic membrane or eardrum. In contrast, swimmer’s ear involves inflammation of the ear canal itself. The eardrum may look completely normal, with no redness or infection, while the irritation or infection is actually along the skin of the ear canal.
What are some must-know summer safety tips for parents and caregivers?
Some must-know summer safety tips include staying within arm’s reach of any child who cannot swim, so you can quickly step in if needed. Avoid distractions and stay fully attentive around water. Hydration is key: drink water before you feel thirsty, keep hydrating during play, and continue afterward. Take advantage of shaded areas and try to plan outdoor activities earlier in the day, before peak heat hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Encourage kids to take breaks every 20 to 30 minutes to rest and rehydrate. Most importantly, never leave a child in the car, even for a moment. North Carolina summers can be extremely hot, so taking these precautions helps to keep children safe and protected.
